Switzerland in winter

Fabulous snow-covered landscapes, wonderful pistes, relaxing over a fondue or memorable times in the ice palace: we've compiled a selection of brilliant things for you to do in Switzerland in the winter.

Ice palaces

Pure magic

Ice artist Karl Neuhaus sweeps visitors away into a fairy-tale world of ice and light. This is a magical winter wonderland. Situated near the Schwarzsee ski resort, these ice palaces will transport visitors into a fascinating world of ice and light. Visitors are allowed to wander through and climb the ice palaces. Some of the palaces are 15 metres high and Karl Neuhaus has been making them for almost 30 years. Thanks to the fabulous lighting, the ice palaces are most beautiful at night. However, it is also particularly cold at night, so warm clothing is recommended.

Camel-riding

A high ride through the snow

The Bernese Jura may not be the natural habitat for camels, but they do feel quite at home here. With their thick fur, Mongolian camels have no trouble with the cold climate and they keep their riders wonderfully warm when on their back. This is what happens on this very original kind of sightseeing tour at the base of the Chasseral, which ends with a fondue evening in a farmhouse. Ponies are also available for small children so that they don't end up getting the hump. All saddled up, it’s time for the caravan to depart.

Fondue evening in an igloo

On the Engstligen Alp

Why not enjoy a delicious Adelbodner Fondue in the largest igloo restaurant in Europe? This is a breath-taking ice and snow experience – perfect for lunch, for a break between ski runs, or for a candle-light dinner. Large-scale igloos have been built on the Engstligen Alp since 1996. The Fondue Igloo consists of seven linked igloos with capacity for 170 persons. The interior is decorated by works of art, including the particularly eye-catching ice sculptures. Since space in the igloos is limited, reservations recommended.

Sörenberg cross-country skiing

An idyllic trip through the snow

The resort of Sörenberg is located inland from Lucerne in the UNESCO biosphere of Entlebuch. It lies 1165 metres above sea level, surrounded by a large number of nationally protected moorlands. There are some 35 kilometres of trails for cross-country skiing fans. The 8 kilometre-long village trail is relatively flat and runs at the base of the Brienzer Rothorn. This trail is recommended for beginners. The trails in Salwideli are absolutely idyllic, treating cross-country skiers to some exceptional views. The Panorama trail is one of the most beautiful and diverse trails in Switzerland.

Health and beauty in Leukerbad

Wonderfully relaxing

After a hard day on the slopes or in the snow what could be better than easing those tired muscles in a relaxing thermal bath or a steaming sauna? This has become virtually routine in Leukerbad, the largest health and thermal spa resort in the Alps. The new sauna landscape in the Linder Alp Thermal Spa is highly recommended. The snow and pool pass ensures visitors make the most of activities in Leukerbad. It allows free entrance to the mountain lifts and the public thermal baths in Leukerbad. For a small additional charge of CHF 19, it also grants access to the relaxing 300m2 Valais sauna centre.

Great skiing in Arosa-Lenzerheide

225 kilometres of piste

Survey results rank the Arosa-Lenzerheide ski resort as one of Switzerland's best. 42 lifts and 225 kilometres of piste certainly provide great fun for skiers. All levels of skier and snowboarder will be happy here, with challenging black pistes, a wide range of red slopes and gentle blue runs. A large number of cosy mountain huts provide refreshments on the slopes. And, what’s more, the resort is just 2 hours away from Zurich.

Snow-shoe hike

Moonlight nostalgia

Together with a local guide, participants take a moonlight hike up to the 'Bättmer-Hitta' wearing nostalgic snow shoes. Having reached the traditional mountain ski hut, guests enter a world of myths and legends. The evening is rounded off with a delicious Valais raclette and a glass of delicious wine by an open fire.

Château-d'Oex hot air ballooning

Up high

Every January, in the last week of the month, Château d'Oex hosts the most important, internationally reputed Alpine ballooning event. The International Hot-Air Balloon Week brings together around 90 balloonists. A fascinating spectacle of shapes and colours. It is also possible to treat yourself to a balloon flight with professional pilots all year round. A unique experience for everyone – for families, groups of friends and romantic couples.

Gstaad

Snowboarders' paradise

The winter sport area, Gstaad Mountain Rides, is perfectly equipped for snowboarders. There's something for all types of boarder – beginners, experts and free-riders alike. Gstaad is the ultimate snowboarders' paradise. There are a wide range of different free-ride facilities for snowboard fans. Gstaad is also a good place for star-spotting, with many celebrities attending cool parties and events held in the town.

The Eiger Run

Spectacular tobogganing

Rumour has it that the Eiger run is one of the most popular and best-prepared toboggan runs in the Bernese Oberland. It is definitely the most spectacular toboggan track in the whole of Switzerland. The end of the trail leads along the base of the Eiger, directly past the legendary north wall. A night run on the illuminated toboggan piste is an experience not to be missed.

The fondue tram

A gourmet city tour

Relax with a Caquelon cheese fondue aboard a vintage tram as it winds its way through the streets of Zurich. A trip on the cosy Fondue Tram is wonderful, indulgent treat. Whilst the Zurich city lights go by outside, the skilled Zunfthaus zur Zimmerleuten staff serve up a delicious cheese fondue, as well as starter and dessert. The vintage tram travels past the most beautiful spots in Zurich, including the Limmat quayside flanked with its historic guild halls, the Bahnhofstrasse, Parade Square and the Quai bridge between the Limmat and Lake Zurich. What better way to combine sightseeing and fine food? The Zurich tram operates between October and March.